Australian CISOs Facing Increased Pressure from AI Threats, Burnout, and Cyber Attacks
Recent research indicates that Australian Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) are grappling with heightened anxiety, burnout, and significant challenges stemming from escalating cyber threats and the rapid emergence of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI). According to Proofpoint’s 2025 Voice of the CISO report, a staggering 77% of Australian CISOs anticipate experiencing a material cyberattack within the next year, a notable increase from 61% the previous year. Furthermore, 76% of these security leaders reported experiencing material data loss in the past year, nearly doubling the 39% reported in 2024. The Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) has highlighted that Australian infrastructure remains a consistent target for threat actors, with predictions suggesting that cyber-enabled sabotage poses a greater risk than traditional physical threats.
The swift adoption of GenAI tools has emerged as both a strategic priority and a concern for security leaders. The report reveals that 74% of Australian CISOs view enabling GenAI tool use as a key focus over the next two years, while 73% express apprehension regarding potential customer data loss through public GenAI platforms. To mitigate these risks, 83% of CISOs have established guidelines for AI usage, yet 72% continue to restrict employee access to GenAI tools entirely. The findings underscore a growing disconnect between confidence and capability among CISOs, as rising data loss and persistent human risk challenge organisational resilience. Patrick Joyce, Global Resident CISO at Proofpoint, emphasises that the role of the CISO has never been more critical or pressured, as they navigate unprecedented complexities in safeguarding vital assets.
Categories: Cybersecurity Threats, Generative AI Challenges, CISO Stress and Burnout
Tags: CISO, Cybersecurity, GenAI, Cyberattack, Data Loss, Burnout, Anxiety, Threat Assessment, Guidelines, Expectations